Marbella Tourism Stakeholders Demand Action Against Beach Erosion
Tourism business leaders in Marbella, a popular seaside town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, are calling for measures to stop the erosion that threatens to wash away the town’s beaches. The movement, known as ‘Marbella por sus playas’, is backed by associations representing hotels and restaurants. They are urging authorities to expedite projects aimed at regenerating the town’s beaches.
Proposed Solutions to Combat Erosion on Costa del Sol Beaches
Among the proposed solutions is the creation of breakwaters to prevent erosion caused by powerful waves during the annual Levante winds. Jose Luque, head of the Association of Hotel Entrepreneurs of the Costa Del Sol (AEHCOS), expressed frustration at the annual loss of beaches to the Levante storms.
Call for Costa del Sol Beaches Regeneration
Despite its popularity with the jetset crowd, Marbella’s beaches leave much to be desired. The group believes it’s time to fast track a regeneration project to restore the beaches as tourism begins to recover post-pandemic. They point to successful regeneration projects in El Palo, Malaga and Poblenou, Barcelona, which significantly improved beaches and boosted tourism.
Marbella’s Beaches Under Criticism
Sergio García, the president of the Andalusian Association of Travel Agencies in Malaga, noted that foreign tour operators frequently complain about the poor quality of Marbella’s beaches.
Planned Demonstration for Beach Protection
A demonstration is scheduled for Sunday, November 21, where local business leaders and residents will demand the creation of breakwaters to protect the resort’s best beaches. Protestors will meet at La Bajadilla port at 11am and march to Playa La Fontanilla, where they will be treated to a free paella, courtesy of the organisers.
